The best running trails around Ballard
5.0
(8)
740
runners
73
runs
Jogging around Ballard offers diverse landscapes, blending urban charm with scenic natural beauty. The region features waterfront views, expansive green spaces, and a network of multi-use trails. Runners can explore a mix of flat, paved paths and more varied terrain, including forested areas and coastal stretches. This combination of features makes Ballard an ideal location for varied running experiences.
Best jogging routes around Ballard
- The most popular jogging route is Camlough Lake running loop — Ring of Gullion, a…
Last updated: June 18, 2026
54
runners
10.5km
01:08
130m
130m
Lace up for the Camlough Lake running loop, a scenic and moderately challenging jog through Northern Ireland's Ring of Gullion Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This popular route circles the…
19
runners
13.6km
01:44
450m
450m
A difficult 8.5-mile (13.6 km) running loop on Slieve Gullion, gaining 1470 feet (448 metres) with panoramic views and varied terrain.
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2
runners
10.9km
01:22
330m
330m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.16km
00:32
140m
150m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
37
runners
6.49km
00:57
290m
290m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
In the middle of the forest, you suddenly find yourself standing in front of a bizarre stone creature - the "witch". She looks as if she has just risen from the mossy ground, with a mischievous smile and deep, expressive wrinkles on her face. This artfully designed stone is one of those unexpected encounters that transform the forest into a small adventure land. When you explore this magical place surrounded by old trees and whispering leaves, it almost seems as if the witch is greeting you with a wink. Here you can linger for a moment, enjoy the silence and let your imagination run wild - who knows what stories this forest still has to tell?
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Camlough Lake is a peaceful place where time seems to pass more slowly. As you stroll along the path, the sparkling water stretches out before you, framed by rolling hills and the shade of the surrounding forests. A few curious goats watch you from a meadow, their gaze almost as interested as yours as you enjoy the view. There is not only nature to experience here, but also small amenities - a car park and a picnic area invite you to take a break. The view of the lake, which once served as a reservoir, is a wonderful way to relax. The lake is also a popular destination for anglers who wait patiently for their catch here. A walk around Camlough Lake is a welcome break that simply does you good.
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Gordon's Lane, just a stone's throw south of Camlough, invites you to a quiet journey of discovery. The narrow lane winds gently through the hills and takes you right into the green of the fields. Old stone walls and thorny hedges line the path on either side, while behind every bend you catch a new view of the valley. From up here, Camlough seems almost like a silent model, spreading out in the distance while nature maintains its own rhythm. The path leads you past pastures and you notice how the noise of everyday life quietly fades away. Especially after a rain shower, the asphalt sparkles and the fresh scent of grass is in the air - a little adventure off the beaten track.
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As soon as you cross the gentle ridge of Slieve Gullion, the North Cairn stretches out before you - a slightly smaller hill than its southern neighbour, but no less impressive. The stones that gather here seem like silent sentinels, witnesses of the distant Bronze Age. Two ancient stone boxes were once found here during excavations, which lay hidden in the depths of history. The North Cairn, with its diameter of around 18 metres, invites you to pause for a moment and enjoy the peace. But it is not just the Cairn that is fascinating. Right next to it lies "Calliagh Beara's Lough", a quiet mountain lake that, according to legend, is the home of the witch Beara. On a clear day, the sky is reflected in the calm waters and you can almost feel the ancient magic of this place coming to life. The road here may be rocky, but the landscape rewards with sweeping views and a touch of mysticism that makes Slieve Gullion something special.
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This small forest at the foot of Slieve Gullion seems to be straight out of a fairy tale. Running through it will leave you enchanted, and you'll come across curious sculptures like this giant witch's face.
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Running along this road next to Camlough Lake is a sensory delight. Additionally, at the southernmost section of the stretch, there's a picnic area with views of the lake where you can rest or even stop for a snack.
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The site can trace its roots back to the 6th century when a monastery for nuns was founded by St. Moninna. The ruins of the two joined churches that can still be seen date from the 11th and the 15th century. Look for the large slab which is said to be St Moninna's grave.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Ballard?
Ballard offers a wide variety of running experiences, with nearly 80 routes documented on komoot. These range from easy, flat paths to more challenging trails with elevation changes, ensuring options for every runner.
What types of terrain can I expect on jogging routes in Ballard?
Jogging in Ballard provides a diverse mix of terrain. You can find flat, paved multi-use trails like sections of the Burke-Gilman Trail, sandy beaches and easy paths at Golden Gardens Park, and more varied forested singletrack or hilly trails within Discovery Park. This blend allows for different running experiences, from urban runs to natural retreats.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly running trails in Ballard?
Yes, Ballard has several easy options perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed run. Golden Gardens Park offers mostly flat trails with stunning Puget Sound views. Sections of the Burke-Gilman Trail are also flat and paved, ideal for an accessible running experience. Overall, komoot lists 7 easy routes in the area.
Where can I find challenging running routes with elevation in Ballard?
For a more challenging run with significant elevation, Discovery Park is an excellent choice. Seattle's largest urban park, located very close to Ballard, features over 10 miles of diverse trails, including a hilly main loop and wooded stairways overlooking Puget Sound. Komoot data indicates 23 difficult routes in the broader Ballard area for those seeking a strenuous workout.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural features to see while running in Ballard?
Ballard's running routes are rich with scenic beauty. Golden Gardens Park offers expansive views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. The Burke-Gilman Trail provides breathtaking waterfront views of Lake Washington and panoramic vistas of the Cascade Mountains. Discovery Park boasts stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and the coastline, along with opportunities to spot wildlife.
Are the jogging routes in Ballard suitable for families?
Yes, many routes in Ballard are family-friendly. Parks like Golden Gardens Park and the flatter sections of the Burke-Gilman Trail are well-suited for family outings, offering easy paths and amenities. Discovery Park also has a relatively flat 2.8-mile loop through forestland and meadows that can be enjoyed by families.
Are there dog-friendly running trails in Ballard?
Ballard is generally very dog-friendly, and many parks and trails welcome leashed dogs. Golden Gardens Park and the Burke-Gilman Trail are popular choices for runners with dogs. Always check specific park regulations for any off-leash areas or restrictions before heading out.
What do other runners say about jogging in Ballard?
The running routes around Ballard are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 5.0 stars from over 7 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse landscapes, from waterfront views to green spaces, and the variety of terrain suitable for different ability levels.
Are there any loop jogging trails in Ballard?
Yes, Ballard offers several loop jogging trails. Discovery Park, for instance, features a challenging main loop trail and a relatively flat 2.8-mile loop through forestland and meadows. Many routes within Golden Gardens Park also allow for circular runs, providing varied scenery without retracing your steps.
What are the best times of year to go jogging in Ballard?
Ballard is enjoyable for jogging year-round, but spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather with milder temperatures and less rain, perfect for enjoying the waterfront views and green spaces. Fall brings beautiful foliage, while winter runs can be refreshing, though you should be prepared for cooler, wetter conditions.
Are there good options for parking near Ballard's running routes?
Yes, many popular running spots in Ballard offer convenient parking. Golden Gardens Park has ample parking facilities. Discovery Park also provides parking areas. For the Burke-Gilman Trail, you can find parking at various access points along its length, making it easy to start your run.
Can I access Ballard's jogging routes using public transport?
Ballard's running routes are generally accessible via public transport. Seattle's bus system serves the Ballard neighborhood, with stops near Golden Gardens Park, the Burke-Gilman Trail, and Discovery Park. Planning your route with a local transit app can help you find the most convenient access points.
Are there places to grab coffee or food near the jogging trails in Ballard?
Absolutely! Ballard is known for its vibrant neighborhood with numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants. After a run at Golden Gardens Park or along the Burke-Gilman Trail, you're often just a short distance from a variety of establishments where you can refuel and relax. The Ballard Locks area also connects easily to the neighborhood's amenities.
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